How to Convert Speaker Wires to RCA Plugs

Nichole Liandi Updated February 21, 2017

Converting speaker wire to RCA plug connectors can serve two purposes. First, by adding RCA plugs onto speaker wire, you can make your own high-quality RCA cables for a relatively inexpensive price. Second, there are a limited number of speakers that actually require RCA connections from the amplifier to the speakers. In either case, the conversion of a regular piece of speaker wire to a wire with RCA plugs at both ends is a relatively simple process that is well within the capabilities of the audio do-it-yourselfer.

Loading ...

Cut a length of speaker wire appropriate for your connection needs. Measure the wire and then cut it with your wire cutter.

Strip the insulation from both ends of the wire so that one-half inch of bare wire is exposed.

Take one end of the speaker wire and slide the jacket for one of your RCA plugs over the wire. Now insert the positive lead of the speaker wire into the centre plug of the RCA connector, from the rear. Heat the tip with your soldering iron and melt a small amount of solder into the tip to hold the wire in place.

Hold the negative lead of the speaker wire against the inside of the RCA's tab. Heat with the soldering iron and solder into place. Slide the sleeve over the connector and screw it tight when the solder is cool.

Repeat Steps 3 and 4 on the other end of the length of speaker wire to complete your cable.

Loading ...

Things You'll Need

Speaker wire

Male RCA connectors

Wire cutter/stripper

Soldering iron

About the Author

Based in Virginia, Nichole Liandi has been a freelance writer since 2005. Her articles have appeared on various print and online publications. Liandi has traveled extensively in Europe and East Asia and incorporates her experiences into her articles. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in history from West Virginia University.